After a frustrating loss in game four to the Toronto Raptors, the 76ers return to Philadelphia for game five of the first round of the NBA playoffs. Joel Embiid and the Sixers will be as motivated as ever coming off of a game in which they felt everything was stacked against them.
- When: Monday April 25th at 8:00 PM
- Where: The Center, Philadelphia, PA
- How: NBA TV, NBCSP, 97.5 FM The Fanatic
Philadelphia 76ers
- Charless Bassey – Out (Shoulder)
For the Philadelphia 76ers, the only player listed on the injury report continues to be rookie Charles Bassey. The second-round selection continues to deal with a lingering shoulder injury that ended his season with the Sixers’ G League affiliate, the Delaware Blue Coats.
Joel Embiid is not listed on the injury report as he will play but it is important to mention that an MRI confirmed what many feared — the Sixers’ star has a torn ligament in his right thumb. Embiid will continue playing through the pain and will put off the necessary surgery until the offseason. While Embiid was able to turn around his performance after struggling early in game four, it’s clear that the injury is bothering him.
This will be a storyline to watch not just this series, but going forward as well.
Toronto Raptors
- Fred VanVleet – Questionable (Hip)
For the Toronto Raptors, the good news is that it seems rookie sensation Scottie Barnes is now healthy enough to play without question. The bad news is that Fred VanVleet is now questionable with a hip injury and judging by his reaction to the injury in game four, questionable may be hopeful. If the Raptors have to go without VanVleet, then expect the recently recovered Scottie Barnes to take over more of the lead facilitator role.
Odds
Back at home, the Philadelphia 76ers are currently seven point favorites. Waiting for news on the status of Fred VanVleet is certainly advisable but a Sixers win still looks to be in sight.
Prediction
Since game three, this playoff series has proved to be very close — being decided by a combined 11 points. Expect that trend to continue tonight as it will be yet another tough battle between the two squads. Take the over tonight but take Toronto +7.
Final Score: Philadelphia 76ers – 113 | Toronto Raptors – 107
